Origin
Solanum burbankii Bitter, also known as Burbank's potato, is a cultivated plant that is believed to have originated in the United States. The plant is named after its creator, Luther Burbank, who developed it in the late 1800s through crossbreeding and selective breeding.
Common Names
Burbank's potato is the most common name for Solanum burbankii Bitter, although it is also known as the spineless potato, smooth potato, and Burbank's spineless potato. These names stem from its characteristic of having fewer or no spines, which makes it easier to harvest than other potato varieties.
Uses
Solanum burbankii Bitter is primarily grown as a food crop since its starchy tubers can be roasted, boiled, mashed, or fried. It is also used for animal feed and as a research specimen. Due to its unique traits, such as being spineless, it is also commonly used in breeding programs to develop new potato cultivars.
General Appearance
Solanum burbankii Bitter is a perennial plant that can reach a height of up to 90 cm. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, and its flowers are small and white. The plant produces starchy tubers that are oblong or round, with a smooth skin that ranges from white to yellowish-brown. The size of the tubers can vary depending on the growing conditions, but they typically range from 5-10 cm in diameter. The plant is generally pest and disease resistant, making it a popular choice for commercial potato farming.
Light Requirements
Solanum burbankii Bitter typically requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. It can tolerate partial shade, but exposure to full sun results in a better growth rate and higher yield. Therefore, it is advisable to grow the plant in an open field or a location with maximum sunlight access for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures to grow and mature. The ideal temperature range is 18-27°C. Solanum burbankii Bitter cannot tolerate frost, and exposure to such conditions can lead to stunted growth or death of the plant. If the plant is grown in a region with low winter temperatures, it should be protected from frost using appropriate methods such as covering or moving it to warmer areas.
Soil Requirements
Solanum burbankii Bitter grows well in well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capacity. Sandy or loamy soils are the most suitable for growing the plant as they provide good drainage and aeration. The plant is also known to perform well in soils with high levels of phosphorus and potassium.
Cultivation Methods
Solanum burbankii Bitter, commonly known as Burbank's potato bush, grows well in full sun and well-drained soil. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. It can also grow well in alkaline soil if necessary. The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 70 to 80°F, but it can handle temperature swings as low as 50°F.
Watering Needs
Water your Burbank's potato bush regularly through the growing season, but be careful not to overwater it. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. The plant likes moist soil but cannot handle standing water. During the hot summer months, water more frequently to ensure that the soil remains moist.
Fertilization
Burbank's potato bush is not a heavy feeder, but it will benefit from regular fertilization. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers because they can lead to too much leaf growth and fewer flowers.
Pruning
Burbank's potato bush requires only minimal pruning to maintain its shape and to encourage healthy growth. Prune the plant in early spring before new growth emerges by cutting back old or damaged stems and removing any crossing branches. Do not prune the plant after it has begun blooming because doing so can reduce the number of flowers.
Propagation of Solanum burbankii Bitter
Solanum burbankii Bitter, also known as Burbank's potato vine, is a perennial vine that produces beautiful showy flowers. This plant can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation from Seeds
Propagation from seeds is a simple and easy method. The seeds can be collected from the mature fruits of the plant. These seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm and bright location with constant moisture. The germination period is typically around two to three weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation from Cuttings
Propagation from cuttings is a popular method for Solanum burbankii Bitter, as it produces faster results than seed propagation. Take a stem cutting around 4-6 inches long from a healthy plant during the growing season. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem and dip the cut part in the rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Place the pot in a bright and warm location with constant moisture. The cutting should develop roots within a few weeks and can then be transplanted to its permanent location.
Propagation from Division
Propagation from division is another easy method for Solanum burbankii Bitter. This is usually done in early spring. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections with a sharp, sterile tool. Plant these sections in well-draining soil mix in their permanent location. Ensure that the soil is kept moist until the plant establishes itself.
Propagation is an excellent way to multiply your collection of Solanum burbankii Bitter plants. Choose the method that works best for you and enjoy the beautiful flowers this plant has to offer.
Disease Management
Solanum burbankii Bitter is susceptible to various diseases, including:
- Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease can cause yellowing, wilting, and death of the plant. To manage verticillium wilt, remove infected plants and avoid planting susceptible crops in the same area for at least three years.
- Phytophthora root rot: It is a fungal disease that can cause black roots, yellowing, and wilting of the plant. To manage phytophthora root rot, avoid overwatering, and improve soil drainage.
- Early blight: It is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage early blight, use fungicides and remove infected plant parts.
Pest Management
Solanum burbankii Bitter is also prone to pest infestations, such as:
- Aphids: These are tiny insects that can cause leaf yellowing and curling. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: They are small pests that spin webs on plants, causing them to wilt and turn brown. To manage spider mites, use a forceful spray of water to wash them off the plant or use insecticidal soap.
- Cutworms: These are caterpillars that feed on the plant's stem, causing it to bend or break. To manage cutworms, apply a biological control such as parasitic nematodes or use a collar around the stem of the plant to prevent the larvae from crawling up.
